How To Tighten & Get Rid Of Sagging Jowls

As we age, many of us grapple with the common concern of sagging jowls. Loss of elasticity in the jowls can affect anyone, regardless of their exercise regimen or dietary habits, but there’s no need to simply accept it. From simple exercises to cosmetic procedures, there’s a range of options available for addressing sagging jowls to rejuvenate your appearance.

Patients concerned about sagging jowls often seek professional treatments in London to restore jawline definition and improve lower face contours.

Jump to: Definition | Causes | Exercises | Non-Surgical Procedures | Cosmetic Surgery

WHAT ARE JOWLS?

Jowls are commonly used to describe the skin below the chin and jawline, particularly when it appears loose, baggy, or lacking definition. This sagging skin forms along the lower cheeks and jawline as the skin loses firmness and elasticity.

Although jowls are not a medical concern and pose no risk to physical health, they can affect confidence and self-esteem. The change in facial structure may make individuals feel they appear older or more tired than they actually are.

Everyone is likely to develop some degree of jowls as they age. However, the severity varies significantly between individuals, as does the age at which they begin to appear.

 

WHAT CAUSES JOWLS TO DEVELOP?

Several factors contribute to the development of sagging jowls. Some are part of the natural ageing process and cannot be controlled, while others relate to lifestyle choices that may accelerate skin ageing.

The two primary causes of jowls are ageing and genetics.

As we age, the skin around the cheeks and jawline gradually loses collagen and elastin. These two proteins are responsible for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. They help keep the skin connected to the underlying tissue and allow it to return to its original shape when stretched.

When collagen and elastin production declines, the skin becomes thinner and less able to resist gravity. Over time, this leads to sagging along the jawline and the appearance of jowls.

Genetics also plays a significant role. Some individuals naturally experience collagen loss earlier than others, sometimes beginning in their twenties. Others may not develop noticeable jowls until much later in life.

Although genetic influence cannot be changed, several lifestyle factors can contribute to more prominent jowls.

Smoking

Smoking negatively affects the skin in several ways. It narrows blood vessels, reducing circulation and limiting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin.

Over time, this can dull the complexion and reduce collagen and elastin production, accelerating the appearance of sagging skin.

Sun Damage

Excessive exposure to sunlight is one of the most common causes of premature skin ageing.

Ultraviolet radiation breaks down collagen fibres in the skin, reducing firmness and elasticity. Without consistent sun protection such as SPF, repeated exposure can significantly accelerate skin laxity around the jawline.

Weight Loss

Rapid weight loss, particularly through crash dieting, can lead to loose skin throughout the body, including the face.

When weight is gained, the skin stretches to accommodate the increase in volume. If weight is lost quickly, the skin may not fully retract, resulting in sagging or excess skin around the jawline.

Tech Neck

Modern lifestyle habits may also contribute to changes in the jawline. Spending extended periods looking down at phones or screens can strain the neck muscles and skin.

Some experts believe this posture may contribute to sagging in the lower face over time.

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QUICK FIXES AND EXERCISES FOR SAGGING JOWLS

Many people look for simple ways to improve sagging jowls naturally. While lifestyle improvements such as quitting smoking and protecting the skin from sun exposure can help maintain skin quality, facial exercises are sometimes recommended to strengthen muscles around the jawline.

Some commonly suggested exercises include:

Chin Exercise

Close your mouth and gently push your lower jaw forward while lifting your lower lip.

Hold this position for several seconds before relaxing. Repeat this movement around twenty times. This exercise aims to activate the muscles of the jaw and lower face.

Neck Exercise

With your head facing forward, keep your shoulders still and slowly move your neck backwards and then forwards.

As your head moves forward, allow the jaw to extend slightly outward while maintaining a level head position.

Although these exercises may strengthen certain muscles, it is important to understand that they cannot remove loose skin. Skin laxity is typically the main cause of sagging jowls.

NON-SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Many individuals choose non-surgical treatments to address sagging jowls. These procedures offer visible improvement without the recovery time associated with surgery.

Non-surgical treatments are typically quicker, less invasive, and allow patients to return to their normal routine almost immediately.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a popular treatment option for improving jawline definition and treating sagging jowls by restoring lost facial volume.

This treatment involves injecting a hyaluronic acid-based gel beneath the skin. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that helps maintain hydration and volume within the skin.

When placed strategically, dermal fillers can restore lost volume, support weakened facial structures, and reduce the appearance of sagging jowls.

Fillers can also stimulate collagen production, which helps improve skin firmness and elasticity over time. Results from expertly administered fillers may last up to two years and can significantly enhance facial contour and confidence.

The examples below show the types of results that can be achieved with non-surgical procedures.

 

 

 

 

Ultherapy

Another option we recommend is Ultherapy, an FDA-approved skin restoration treatment targeting concerns such as sagging jowls. Ultherapy is loved by A-listers such as Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kim Kardashian, and yet treatment costs start from just £400.

Ultherapy uses ultrasound, so there are no incisions or injections, making it truly non-invasive and gentle on the skin. The process works by gently heating the skin in a targeted manner to stimulate collagen production. It’s a truly ground-breaking procedure that produces results in a matter of days.

ULTRAcel

A similar treatment is ULTRAcel, which uses both ultrasound and radio frequency. ULTRAcel combines radio frequency and HIFU technology to penetrate the deep layers of the skin to lift and tighten, with rapid results.

Laser Skin Tightening

Laser skin tightening might also be effective. This treatment uses heat to stimulate collagen and elastin fibre production in deep layers of the skin. Modern laser treatments are far better at targeting deeper layers, without removing the surface layer, which leads to a fresh new layer of skin without the risk of scarring.

CoolSculpting

Alternatively, CoolSculpting can help reduce a double chin by using cold therapy to freeze fat cells. It doesn’t eliminate jowls, but it can be effectively combined with other non-surgical treatments to sculpt the lower face and improve your appearance.

Why not arrange a consultation with a skilled, qualified expert so we can let you know suitable options and help you to make an informed decision?

COSMETIC SURGERY

At the more advanced end of treatment options is cosmetic surgery.

Surgical procedures can remove excess skin and reposition tissues to significantly improve the appearance of sagging jowls.

Anyone considering surgery should begin with a detailed consultation with a reputable surgeon who can assess facial structure and recommend the most appropriate procedure.

Liposuction

Liposuction is one possible surgical option.

During this procedure, a small cannula is used to remove fat from the chin and neck area. Removing this fat can improve contour and reduce fullness around the jawline.

However, liposuction is an invasive procedure performed under general anaesthesia. Recovery time is required, and swelling or bruising is common after surgery.

Neck Lift or Facelift

Another option is a neck lift, sometimes combined with a full facelift.

These procedures involve tightening underlying muscles, removing excess fat, and repositioning skin to create a smoother and more defined jawline.

Incisions are usually placed near the ears to remain as discreet as possible.

Because these are surgical procedures, recovery time and costs are significantly higher than non-surgical treatments.

A qualified surgeon will advise on the most appropriate treatment based on your goals, recovery preferences, and overall health.

ABOUT DR NYLA

Dr. Nyla is one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the United Kingdom. She is trusted by high-profile clients and frequently consulted by media publications for expert commentary on aesthetic treatments.

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Dr. Nyla’s clinic also won the Top Cosmetic Clinic Award in the UK for 2019.

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